Beethoven Symphony No. 7 – Bass Part

Edited by Paul Ellison

The bass part for Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92 has been edited by Paul Ellison, in-demand double bassist, professor, presenter, and former Houston Symphony Orchestra principal bassist of 23 years. Ellison's bowings, fingerings and other editorial markings have been added throughout the score.

The Seventh Symphony was composed by Beethoven between 1811 and 1812 and dedicated to Count Moritz von Fries. The symphony as a whole is known for its use of rhythmic devices suggestive of a dance, such as dotted rhythm and repeated rhythmic figures. At its 1813 premiere the work was very well received, and the second movement (Allegretto) had to be encored immediately. During this performance Beethoven himself remarked that it was one of his best works. Although the entire Seventh Symphony is famous, the instant and long-standing popularity of the second movement has resulted in its frequent performance separate from the complete work.

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Dear bassist or interested party,

All my editing is done in the spirit of "living editions." They are never finished or to be considered set in stone. Bowings, articulations, fingerings, dynamics and phrasings may change with conductors, historical performance considerations, change of instrument, bow or strings, differing venues, individual physical considerations, change of climate or altitude not to mention additional acquired knowledge or change in personal taste. Asking oneself to have about five ways to play most passages seems to cover the fluctuating circumstances mentioned in addition to giving oneself reason and context for choices to be made. Each set of performances of any major work is likely to prompt some change(s). The very nature and future of music as an art form demands live, dynamic, fresh interpretations which frequently necessitates realizing that there actually is no "rule book" and that the "bass police" will never actually show up.

Please accept this editing in the spirit of knowing that our skills and abilities are in constant flux and may require many possibilities. Here's to great music making.